Volunteers go above and beyond, below zero for students

January 27, 2003|By Hillary Dickerson

This time of year, with their layers of winter weather gear to keep them warm, they take to their posts.

Ronan stands near the back entrance at South Maple and helps students bundled in winter weather apparel and backpacks in tow, safely out of the vehicles dropping them off. They begin their work at 7:45 a.m., when the winter sky is still dark, and by the time they finish well after 8, the blackness has turned into light.

Musser, on the other hand, is nearer the front entrance, stopping traffic for school buses preparing to unload students at South Maple's front entrance.

This is Ronan and Musser's daily routine come fall, winter and spring; rain or snow; heat or cold. They agree that the sleet and the occasional high winds that whip across the parking lot are far worse than frigid temperatures.

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Helping the children safely arrive at school is something Musser and Ronan really enjoy. "We both enjoy it. We're the 'TC Gals' - the traffic control gals," smiled Musser, adding Ronan fills more of a valet post.

Ronan explained they began their duty together, but then saw the need at the side of the building and decided to split up, staying connected now by a walkie talkie system Musser brings from home.

"I honestly enjoy seeing the kids in the morning," said Ronan of her reasons for returning year after year. "I look forward to being out there with those kids."

And it's evident Musser and Ronan's extra efforts are appreciated by the parents. Musser and Ronan have had McDonald's breakfasts delivered to them on those chilly days along with Halloween goodies and hot chocolates.

Kay Johnson, a parent with third-grade twins, is the driver of one of the vehicles dropping children off most mornings.

"It is so important," said Johnson of what the two women do to lend a hand. "These women - I give them so much credit."

Describing the parking lot as "chaos," Johnson admitted the rush to drop off the students can - at times - get out of hand. But no matter the weather conditions, Musser and Ronan are there to fill key roles. "I just think they do a wonderful job," concluded Johnson.